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Alondra’s Now Serving in Larchmont: Talented Chef Erwen Perez has been running the kitchen at Encore Bistro in Larchmont for more than 23 years. He had a dream of opening his own eatery one day. Now he has taken the reigns at Gusto Pizza which was next door to the popular bistro from owner David Masliah and renamed it Alondra’s Woodfired Pizza & Restaurant. He runs it with daughters Alondra and Veronica. One taste of their artisanal pies and your palate will fly off to foodie heaven. Wines by the glass, appetizers, salads, and such delish individual- sized pizzas as the Margherita, tomato, fresh mozzarella, fresh basil; or the Pancetta, tomato, pancetta, crème fraiche, onion, and mozzarella. Start with Mussels and Clams served with Caesar Salad. The Italian/global menu has been expanded: Pappardelle pasta with broccoli rabe, Italian sausage, garlic, and white wine; classic Chicken or Eggplant Parmigiana;  or Butternut Squash & goat cheese Lasagna. Paninis are available, as is a special selection for bambinos. Cozy and colorful setting. Open 7 days for lunch & dinner. Seasonal outdoor seating. Alondra’s, 18 Chatsworth Ave., Larchmont. 914-881-3466 www.alondraslarchmontny.com 

Rye House Menu is a Tasty Deal: Owner Rob Lombardi of Rye House in Port Chester serves one of the most reasonably priced menus in Westchester. Flavors are full throttle on the classic regional American gastropub specialties, no skimping. When passing through the area, I enjoy wandering in during their Happy Hours, Tuesday through Friday, 4-6 p.m., when their curated list of cocktails and drinks is also marked down. They offer an especially fine selection of Ryes. 

Recently found myself at the sparkling granite bar for a few beers and sliders. On another occasion, it was an extraordinary Korean Fried Chicken on Challah Bun, piled high with pickled ginger slaw, cilantro, and gochujang sauce, served with fries. 

It is a sprawling vintage space with private party facilities for up to 100 guests and an open kitchen in the rear. 

Rye House is located at 126 N. Main St., Port Chester. Just a short walk from Metro-North. Open from 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Municipal parking. 914-481-8771 www.ryehousepc.net  

Classic Veal Parmigiana at Alex’s Bar & Grille: The much-discussed Veal and Chicken Parmigiana served at high-powered Carbone/Torrisi restaurants in Manhattan has met its match here in Westchester. The version served at Alex’s Bar & Grille is top notch, and much less expensive. As are the big cuts of aged steaks and chops. Save room for the house-made cheesecake for dessert. It’s a winner and available to take home. Proprietor Alex Ahmetaj serves up generous platters of Italian/Continental fare. The handsome dining room is split into cozy sections with white tablecloths, colorful de Villeneuve  impressionist paintings, and warming sconces. Mediterranean clay-colored banquets and chairs complement wooden walls and plush beige-curtained windows. The bar/lounge bustles. Seasonal patio seating. Open 7 days. Alex’s Bar & Grille, 577 N. Broadway, White Plains. 914-358-1444 www.alex577.com 

(Morris Gut is a restaurant marketing consultant and former restaurant trade magazine editor. He has been tracking and writing about the food and dining scene in greater Westchester for 30 years. He may be reached at 914-235-6591. Email: gutreactions@optonline.net)